February is Heart Month

Every February, communities and health centers around North America come together for Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease, promote healthy lifestyles, and support life-saving cardiac care and research. In Alberta, this campaign is championed by the University Hospital Foundation (UHF). This year, the UHF is supporting the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute (the Maz). Patients from across northern Alberta, western Canada, and the Territories come to the Maz for care they cannot find anywhere else. You can learn more at https://heartmonth.ca/

Heart Health Starts With You

Heart Month is also a reminder that heart health begins at home. Lifestyle choices such as regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, stress management, and awareness of signs and symptoms of heart disease can reduce cardiovascular risk for yourself and your loved ones.

Key Symptoms & Warning Signs

Common symptoms of cardiovascular disease, such as heart attacks and heart failure, are shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting, and swelling in your legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen. While chest pain is a common symptom in men, women are more likely to experience nausea, vomiting, jaw pain, and extreme fatigue without intense chest pressure.

Nutrition at Calgary Meals on Wheels

Did you know Calgary Meals on Wheels has a Registered Dietitian and a team of Red Seal Chefs? They work together to ensure our meals are balanced and follow guidelines from Health Canada and the Heart & Stroke Foundation to support your heart health. Try our Steamed Salmon with Dill Sauce or the Classic Chicken with Gravy today!
This information is provided by our Registered Dietitian and is not meant to replace advice from your medical doctor or health professional regarding your individual needs. It is intended for educational and informational purposes only.